DRY EYE

Dry Eye Treatments

There are a number of options to treat dry eye. They include:

1Artificial eyedrops & ointments

This is the most common treatment, with many options available over the counter. If the condition is chronic, you may need to use the drops constantly to keep your eyes sufficiently wet. If your eyes dry out while sleeping, you can use a thick product, like an ointment, at night.

2Temporary punctal occlusion

A temporary solution is the closing of the punctum; the duct that drains tears from your eye. For this procedure, a plug that is designed to dissolve over time will be used.

3Permanent ounctal occlusion

If a more permanent solution is required, there are longer-lasting plugs that can be inserted to close up the punctum. Alternatively, there is a procedure called cautery where a special tool is used to burn the opening shut.

4Lipiflow

This is a medical device that uses heat and pressure to unclog blocked oil glands on your eyelids.

5Testosterone cream

Although rare, dry eye can be caused by a lack of testosterone in the oil glands on your eyelids. A testosterone cream can be applied to help your oil glands work better.

6Cyclosporine (Restasis)

This prescription eyedrop helps to boost the production of tears.

7Lifitegrast (Xiidra)

Taken twice daily, these eyedrops help to kick-start tear production.

8Other medication and nutrition

Steroid eyedrops can be used for short periods, along with long-term measures such as adding fish oil or omega-3 to your diet.